With an MBA in finance from New Delhi’s International Management Institute, Sakshi Aggarwal had her career going quite well for her. She had built a good reputation in her association with reputed banks and financial institutions – like Bank of America, Citibank, ICICI Securities and others. After giving birth to her second child, Ms Aggarwal decided to bid adieu to her corporate career and be a stay-at-home mother. After around four years, her entrepreneurial dream began nagging her. Then came COVID-triggered lockdown and gave a nudge to her dream. She came across many inspirational stories of small businesses operating out of home, unfazed by the crisis. Ms Aggarwal teamed up with co-founder Aditya Gupta and set up a platform – Gharobaar.com. This platform helps promote such homegrown businesses access a wider reach for their products, thus giving a push to the nationwide slogan – Vocal for Local. In a lively conversation with Sharmila Chand, Ms Aggarwal provides an insight into her personal life.

How do you define yourself?

I am a banker turned stay-at-home mother turned entrepreneur.

What is your philosophy of life?

Not to be rigid, but be ready to change with any alteration

What is your passion in life?

Planning and organising events, such as get-togethers and holidays

What is your management mantra? 

Empower and guide rather than micro-manage and show authority

A business leader you admire the most…

Ratan Tata – primarily because despite all the heights that Tata Sons has reached because of his efforts, he is known more for his philanthropy and social work.

Your source of inspiration…

While I was growing up, my father was my constant source of inspiration for the way he sacrificed for his family. Post-marriage, my husband has been the one person I look up to for the dedication and commitment to his work.

You are a ‘tough’, serious boss or…

I would like to say that I’m a very friendly boss.

What do you enjoy the most in life, generally?

Travelling and planning my travels

How do you de-stress?

Spending time with my kids

What is your fitness regime?

Walking a minimum of 10,000 steps in a day or practicing weight training for 45 minutes to an hour before I start work

Your mantra for success…

Hard work is the only mantra for success.

Ten years from now, where do we see you?

I would want to see myself in a position where I’m able to contribute effectively towards society by being an enabler for small businesses across India for becoming big and successful.